Hobson's Choice
Henry Hobson: You, you blood-sucking, money-grabbing...
Albert Prosser: One moment, Mr. Hobson. You can call me what you like...
Henry Hobson: And I shall, you...
While I do not laugh loudly through this film I DO retain a smile throughout with continual chuckling at how enchanting of a story this is.
The first time I saw this, it was to see a Charles Laughton film I had not previously seen. And while with each revisit it still remains a Laughton film in my mind and in my heart, it is also this amazing couple and their growth as a couple that truly clinches it for me.
I have heard that John Mills was a last minute choice and I so do enjoy such serendipitous situations because he is so ideal for Mr. Mossop who's mousy beginnings is transformed to that of a lion by the love of the determined eldest daughter, Maggie, played by Brenda de Banzie who's stern features melt away upon seeing the mouse become a lion.
Their little love story within this very enjoyable film is quite the highlight that balances Laughton's boisterous presence as he is placed within the literal Hobson's Choice. That is, where the only two choices are: take it or leave it.
I should also mention that it is said that this was Mills' favorite film and I can very easily see why. It's a delightful and fun role with such a character growth,filled with such charm and wit to it.
A charm and wit that encompasses the entirety of the film.
Something that doesn't always work out elsewhere, where the remaining scenes and characters appear as filler or feel unimportant.
Here, the movie shines throughout as does the remaining cast all the way down the doctor who treats Henry Hobson.
There were quite a number of films that I was considering for this, my second nomination, but once I came across this, and remembered my enjoyment of it. . .
Well, it was a Hobson's Choice, now, wasn't it?